Ride the Ducks

The "ducks" are amphibious vehicles based on a transport used in World War II, but Branson's versions are strictly for peaceful purposes. On either of two approximately hour-long tours, you'll get a chance to sightsee, a history lesson and a chance to drive a duck once it's hit the waves. (That goes for kids, too.) It's not a bad introduction to the town, actually, as it provides an overview of what's out there that you can draw on as you plan the rest of your trip. The "classic" Table Rock Lake tour takes you through the entertainment district and into the Ozarks, while the new Branson Landing tour (which, please note, starts at a different location, in the town proper) shows off downtown and Lake Taneycomo. Kids get "quackers" so that they can make some noise, and Ride the Ducks says seasickness is rarely an issue. Tickets are $20 for adults and $12 for kids ages 4 to 11, and this trip is well worth the money.